Because only together we can
build a world where all of today's youth are safe, strong & valued
Making a Real Difference in People’s Lives
Spotlight UK started in April 2009. We started out to provide low cost activities to help increase confidence and self esteem to children and young people across Basingstoke. However this vision quickly grew and we were able to provide emotional and practical support as well as enjoyable and fun activities to hundreds of children and young people every year.
In 2024 Spotlight launched ‘Spotlight UK Scarlett’s Smiles’ to support children who have a parent or sibling who has a terminal illness or long term illness, children with terminal illness or long term medical condition, children in care, young carers and adult carers, children who have experienced traumatic loss or separation, and children affected by domestic abuse.
The inspiration behind Scarlett’s Smiles
WHAT WE DO
Membership and Mailing List
In order to keep our activities available to all, we have implemented a membership program. Standard membership is FREE to join. Gold membership is a one off annual fee per person at £7.50 which means you will receive the discount from venues plus top up subsidised discount from Spotlight for activities as well as offers of free and discounted days out and trips when they arise based on first come first served.
Discounted Children & Family Activities
Scarlett's Smiles Christmas Appeals
Scarlett's Smiles Care Package Scheme
This is where we collect and buy supplies to create various boxes of gifts that we send to children and families who need a pick me up and a reminder that every deserves a little love.
Scarlett's Smiles Young Carers Network
Scarlett's Smiles Special Experiences
We want to provide special experiences for those struggling with disability and illness, to create new positive memories in peoples lives.
Scarlett's Smiles Sponsored Activities
We provide sponsored activities like bowling, laser tag and trampolining to children affected by loss, separation and mental health issues.
Scarlett's Smiles Emergency Supplies
Making a difference in local communities
In April 2009, Spotlight started to provide free and low-cost activities for young people in Basingstoke, helping them increase confidence and self-esteem. It wasn’t long before the vision grew and founder Michaela could look to expand.
In addition to fun activities for young people, we also provide emotional and practical support where needed – a crucial aspect of supporting mentally healthy youngsters.
Thanks to a small army of volunteers, local business support and a growing need, we have continued to expand and now work across the following areas:
- Basingstoke and Deane
- West Berkshire
- Reading
- Bracknell
- Hart and Rushmoor
- Portsmouth
- Gosport
- Havant
- East Hampshire
- Test Valley
- Fareham
- Southampton
- Surrey
- New Forest
We believe everyone should have a chance to fulfil their potential
Regardless of your race, religion, ability, family status or financial background, every child should be treated equally.
We believe:
- Each child should have chances that will allow them to flourish mentally, physically and emotionally.
- Each child should have opportunities to develop their confidence, self-esteem and social interaction.
- Each child should have access to fun activities regardless of their household income
- Each child should know that there are people to turn to and that they have support to guide them through life’s challenges